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Deakin University

Graduate Diploma of Data Science

  • Delivery: Face to Face
  • Study Level: Postgraduate
  • Duration: 12 months
  • Course Type: Graduate Diploma

This degree covers modern data science concepts, statistical data analysis, descriptive analytics, and machine learning, equipping you with the theory, methodologies, techniques, and tools of modern data science.

Course overview

Through this course, you will develop the ability to confidently work with any type of data, identify trends, make predictions, draw conclusions, drive innovations, make decisions and share information that influences people. This course gives you essential skills in data analytics, enabling you to discover insights and support decision-making across a range of industries.

CSP Subsidised Fees Available

This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.

Key facts

Delivery
Face to Face
Course Type
Graduate Diploma
Duration
More Information
Can be studied part time.
12 months (Full time)
Campus
Burwood
Intake
November, 2025
Units
8
Fees
More Information
HECS-HELP loans are available to CSP students to pay the student contribution amount.
HECS, CSP

What you will you study

To complete the Graduate Diploma of Data Science students must pass eight credit points.

Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (zero-credit point compulsory unit).

The course is structured in two parts:

  • Part A: Fundamental data analytics studies (four credit points)
  • Part B: Core data science studies (four credit points).

Depending upon prior qualifications and/or experience, you may receive credit for Part A.

Part A: Fundamental data analytics studies
  • Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (zero credit points)
  • Real World Analytics
  • Data Wrangling
  • Mathematics for Artificial Intelligence
  • Machine Learning
Part B: Core data science studies

Entry requirements

Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements or higher to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.

A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.

Academic requirements

To be considered for admission to this degree, you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • Completion of a bachelor's degree or higher in a related discipline.
  • Completion of a bachelor's degree or higher in any discipline and at least two years' relevant work experience (or part-time equivalent).

* Related to the broad field of Information Technology.

English language proficiency requirements

To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:

  • Bachelor's degree from a recognised English-speaking country.
  • IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent.
  • Other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements).

Recognition of Prior Learning

Deakin University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.

You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.

Visit their website or contact the university for more information.

Outcomes

Learning outcomes

  • Develop specialised knowledge of data analytics concepts and technologies to solutions based on specifications and user requirements.
  • Communicate in a professional context to inform, explain and drive sustainable innovation through data science and to motivate and effect change, utilising a range of verbal, graphical and written methods, recognising the needs of diverse audiences.
  • Identify, select and use digital technologies, platforms, frameworks and tools from the field of data science to generate, manage, process and share digital resources.
  • Evaluate and critically analyse information provided and their sources to inform decision making and evaluation of plans and solutions associated with the field of data science.
  • Apply advanced cognitive, technical and creative skills from data science to understand requirements and design, implement, operate and evaluate solutions to real-world and ill-defined computing problems.
  • Work independently to apply knowledge and skills in a professional manner to new situations and/or further learning in the field of data science with adaptability, autonomy, responsibility and personal accountability for actions as a practitioner and a learner.
  • Apply professional and ethical standards and accountability in the field of data science and openly and respectfully collaborate with diverse communities and cultures.

Career outcomes

You may find a career as a:

  • Data analyst
  • Data scientist
  • Analytics programmer
  • Analytics manager
  • Analytics consultant
  • Business analyst
  • Management advisor
  • Management analyst
  • Business advisor and strategist
  • Marketing manager
  • Market research analyst
  • Marketing specialist

Fees and CSP

Estimated tuition fee in 2025: $8,619 (Commonwealth Supported Place)

All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a full-time study load of eight credit points (normally eight units) per year.

A student’s annual fee may vary in accordance with:

  • The number of units studied per term.
  • The choice of major or specialisation.
  • Choice of units.
  • Credit from previous study or work experience.
  • Eligibility for government-funded loans.

Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.

Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)

The Australian Government allocates certain numbers of CSP to universities each year, which are then distributed to students based on merit.

If you're a Commonwealth Supported Student (CSS), you'll only need to pay a portion of your tuition fees. This is known as the student contribution amount – the balance once the government subsidy is applied. This means your costs are much lower.

Limited CSP spaces are offered to students enrolled in selected postgraduate courses.

Your student contribution amount is:

  • Calculated per unit you're enrolled in.
  • Dependent on the study areas they relate to.
  • Reviewed and adjusted each year. 

HECS-HELP loans are available to CSP students to pay the student contribution amount.